This 1964 album finds Ferré in a reflective mood, balancing a program of his own compositions with interpretations of Apollinaire's poetry. It captures a crucial moment in his career, as he moved from the more politically charged works towards a more personal and poetic expression.
- The album was recorded in Paris at the legendary Billancourt Studios with engineer Claude Achallé. It features arrangements by the esteemed composer Jean-Michel Defaye, who also worked with Jacques Brel. The track "Colchiques dans les prés" became a modest hit, though it was overshadowed by his more monumental works.
- Despite its quality, "Léo Ferré 64" was not a chart success in France, peaking outside the top 20 albums. It is often considered a transitional work between his more raw, early recordings and the lush orchestral arrangements of his later period. The album was reissued multiple times due to its enduring appeal among Ferré enthusiasts.
- The album's title is a direct reference to its release year, a common practice for Ferré during this period. It includes a unique interpretation of Apollinaire's poem "Le Pont Mirabeau," set to music by Ferré. The cover art, a stark black and white photograph of the artist, reflects the album's introspective tone.
Léo Ferré was a French chansonnier, composer, and poet who often explored themes of anarchism, love, and the human condition. He emerged in the post-war era, becoming one of the most significant voices in French chanson. On "Léo Ferré 64," Ferré was at a creative peak, having recently released several seminal albums and solidifying his reputation as a radical poet-musician.
Tracklist
